Today, U.S. Senators Rob Portman (R-Ohio) and Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) will introduce a resolution condemning the violence and persecution of Iraqi Christians and other religious minorities by the Islamic State in Iraq. The resolution also urges the President to reaffirm America's commitment to religious liberty by helping to create safe zones for refugees fleeing persecution, ensuring timely processing of visa applications from religious minorities, and working with the Iraqi government to ensure religious minorities are protected.

"The United States must stand up for religious freedom not only at home, but also in regions of the world experiencing turmoil like the Middle East," Portman stated. "This resolution says that we will not tolerate targeted violence against Christians in Iraq and that those persecuting Christians must be stopped."

"I am horrified by the current situation in Iraq, and I share the deep concerns of many families in Michigan who are frightened for friends and family members in Iraq," said Stabenow. "The Iraqi government must do everything possible to protect all of its citizens from further violence, particularly those who may be targeted by extremists."

"We must do everything in our power to combat religious persecution of Christians around the world," said President and CEO of the Christian Coalition of America Roberta Combs. "We applaud the efforts of Senators Portman and Stabenow to highlight this important issue."

The Islamic State has forced Christians in the territory it controls to flee their homes, convert to Islam, or face execution. With over one million displaced people due to violence in Iraq, reports have surfaced of targeted harassment, persecution, and killings of Iraqi religious minorities by the Islamic State with little to no protection from the Iraqi Government and other security forces.

The resolution currently has 33 cosponsors. A similar resolution has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Juan Vargas (D-CA-51).